MEDIA RELEASE
21st June 2012

Public invited to join search for next New Zealander of the Year

Members of the public are invited to official launches in Auckland and Dunedin early in July to commence the search for the next Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year.

Guests will hear from current Awards winners, Young New Zealander of the Year, Sam Johnson from Christchurch, Local Hero of the Year Henare O’Keefe of Hastings and in Dunedin, Senior New Zealander of the Year Malcolm Cameron. They will be treated to a free and very exclusive performance by top Kiwi performer Jeremy Redmore of Midnight Youth, supported by the Auckland Gospel Choir and award winning performer, 18yr- old Kylie Price in Dunedin.

The New Zealander of the Year 2012, Sir Richard Taylor of Wellington, was recognised for his dedication to the country - setting a shining example by advocating for his community whilst establishing himself as a global player in the movie industry. Richard is a passionate and articulate New Zealander, committed to this country, and committed to showing New Zealanders that we can do it here. As he says, "Why shouldn't it be us?”

Awards Patron Rt Hon Jim Bolger will be joined by Mayors, Members of Parliament, community leaders, Local Hero medal recipients and previous nominees in each of the five Award categories at the Q Theatre in Auckland on the 5th July and the Dunedin Art Gallery on 6h July.

National Manager of the New Zealander of the Year Awards, Emma Mcdonald says “this is the first time the official launch events will be held in Auckland and Dunedin and it will be a fantastic opportunity to identify and nominate local people and communities in each of the five categories.”
Presented for outstanding service, achievement and contribution to the nation, the Awards celebrate excellence in New Zealand.

The awards seek to recognise people from all walks of life, and honour exceptional individuals, organisations and community groups who inspire others through their hard work and achievement.

The 2013 official launches are free public events providing an opportunity to enjoy an inspirational and entertaining evening at which Kiwis will be encouraged to nominate an individual or community that is making a positive difference.

Numbers are limited at both events and those wishing to attend must register their attendance with the Awards Office by email or free phone 0508 692 927.

Nominations will open on 5th July 2012 closing on 12th October 2012 and will be followed by an official judging process and announcement of the semi-finalists in December. Winners of each category including the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year will be announced at a Gala Awards Dinner on 28th February 2013.

Any citizen over the age of 15 can be nominated in one or more of the five award categories:
• Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year
• Coca Cola Amatil Young New Zealander of the Year
• Countdown Senior New Zealander of the Year
• Mitre 10 Community of the Year
• Kiwibank Local Heroes

Principal sponsor Kiwibank will give each category winner $5,000 towards their work and a custom made trophy. All nominees will receive a certificate of achievement in recognition of their contribution.

Nominations can be made online from 5th July at www.nzawards.org.nz or at by collecting a nomination form from Kiwibank, Countdown and Mitre 10 stores.

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